Local Foster Youth Celebrate Graduation Triumphs at Palm Beach Event!

Palm Beach County, Florida - On June 12, 2025, the atmosphere was electric at Palm Beach State College as ChildNet hosted its Annual Graduation event celebrating the achievements of foster youth. In a memorable ceremony, CBS12 News anchor Liz Quirantes took the helm as the mistress of ceremonies, guiding the community through a heartwarming celebration of academic successes.

This year, graduates included high school diploma recipients, GED holders, and even college degree earners, showcasing the incredible potential of these young individuals. Janvietane, one of the proud graduates, shared her thoughts on the significance of her achievement as she prepares to attend Florida Gulf Coast University to pursue a degree in health science. “It’s more than just a ceremony; it symbolizes overcoming challenges,” Janvietane emphasized, her eyes shining with hope.

Celebrating Achievements

Neiko Shea from ChildNet highlighted the importance of this event, explaining how these celebrations play a crucial role in showcasing the successes of foster youth in Palm Beach County. “Each achievement is a milestone worth celebrating, not just for the individuals but for the community as a whole,” Shea remarked. Another graduate, Ashlyn, expressed her gratitude for the support she received during her journey, which included assistance from Forever Family, which helps cover university registration fees, scholarships, and even prom dresses for foster youth.

Heartfelt sentiments were prevalent as Ashlyn encouraged her peers not to give up and to engage in supportive programs, revealing plans to pursue nursing in college. The community surrounding these young individuals fosters an environment of hope amid the challenges they face.

The Wider Context

While the graduation ceremony showcased triumphs, it’s essential to consider the challenges that many in foster care endure. Approximately 400,000 children and youth are in foster care in the U.S. at any given time, and each year, around 20,000 of these students age out of the system. Sadly, many face a host of barriers that can impede their educational success. National data shows that only about 50% of foster children graduate high school, and a mere 11% attain a bachelor’s degree, often due to frequent relocations and lack of support during critical transitions into adulthood, as noted by the U.S. Department of Education in their findings on the educational challenges faced by foster youth here.

Research conducted by Clemson University identifies the pressing need for coordinated efforts between education and child welfare agencies. The study reveals that foster youth often deal with poorly resourced schools, trauma, and significant school mobility—compounding their difficulties and leading to lower academic achievement. This instability can have long-term effects, including increased risk of homelessness and involvement with the criminal justice system here.

Nevertheless, programs that offer mentoring and trauma-informed support can significantly improve outcomes for these youth. The Federal Foster Care Transition Toolkit aims to guide current and former foster youth as they navigate both educational and career pathways, offering vital resources to cultivate success in their transitions into adulthood.

As the community reflects on the graduation celebrations, it’s crucial to remember that the journey for many foster youth has just begun. The gathering at Palm Beach State College not only served as a platform for celebrating the accomplishments of the day but also illuminated the ongoing need for encouragement and support in the years to come. For those interested in how they can help foster youth navigate these challenges, consider visiting Forever Family.